In 2015, Her Majesty, The Queen graciously signed the Royal Warrant for the new State Award - the “Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service”. This can only be presented to those who have served at sea, importantly still in any capacity, in the Merchant Navy or Fishing Fleets. The normal eligibility criteria are for a minimum of 20 years’ service, some of which must be afloat and any remainder within the industry. The number of awards granted annually remains at a maximum of 20. Those without service at sea but have made an important contribution to the merchant service or fishing fleets can, of course, have their names submitted for other national Honours.

The original committee Merchant Navy Medal committee now acts in advisory capacity to the Department of Transport, which welcomes the range of knowledge among its members. The names of the recipients are announced each year on Merchant Navy Day - 3rd September - and the medals are awarded on, or around that date, by HRH The Princess Royal in her capacity as Master of Trinity House. The ceremony continues to be kindly hosted and funded by Trinity House London.